Jason McAteer believes Philippe Coutinho will still join Barcelona
Rumours are beginning to accelerate once again over Coutinho’s future with January’s transfer window fast approaching.
Barcelona are said to be willing to return with an improved bid in the New Year after failing with three offers during the summer.
But recent reports have suggested Paris Saint-Germain could rival the La Liga giants for the Brazilian’s signature.
Coutinho is said to favour a move to Barcelona and has reportedly asked Liverpool not to listen to any offers from the French club.
And Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo claim Barcelona want to meet with Liverpool representatives to see whether a deal can in fact be brokered in January.
The report suggests Barcelona are keen to bring in Coutinho before the end of the season to help bed him in as Andres Iniesta’s long-term replacement.
Barcelona legend Ronaldinho recently waded into Coutinho’s transfer debate by insisting he would be delighted to see his fellow countryman pull on the famous jersey.
“I would be very happy to see such a talented player wear the shirt I wore for so many years,” Ronaldinho said.
GETTY
Barcelona will step up their attempts to sign Philippe Coutinho in the coming months
GETTY
Ernesto Valverde is keen to wrap up Philippe Coutinho's signature as soon as possible
“I believe the way he plays will perfectly suit Barcelona and would be delighted to see a player of such quality wear the shirt.
“I like the way Coutinho plays and the type of football he brings.
“Those types of qualities will hopefully help Brazil win the next World Cup.”
Coutinho featured in Brazil's friendly against England yesterday and came close to finding the game's only goal in the second half, only to be denied by Joe Hart.
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